ROBBINS, NC — The Robbins Board of Commissioners voted Thursday to delay accepting a $75,000 tourism grant for the planned Ellie Jean Play Park, choosing to wait for a finalized project cost that includes all site preparation.

Town Manager Clint Mack told commissioners the Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area Convention and Visitors Bureau awarded the town $75,000 through its One-Time Project Fund. The town had originally requested $100,000 to help construct the ADA-accessible playground.

While the grant would significantly offset the cost of the project—estimated at roughly $200,000 for playground equipment—board members raised concerns about unknown expenses related to grading and parking lot paving.

Commissioner Nikki Bradshaw said the board should not accept the grant without a transparent, all-inclusive figure that reflects the full scope of work. She stressed that the concern was not about rejecting the project, but about ensuring financial clarity and public transparency.

Mack noted the project is time-sensitive, warning that equipment prices are expected to rise after Jan. 1. He added that town public works crews could handle grading internally, and a local vendor has offered favorable pricing for paving, estimated between $2,500 and $5,000.

The town currently has between $42,000 and $45,000 in donations specifically designated for the Ellie Jean Play Park. To receive the CVB funds, the town must match the grant and complete the project before reimbursement.

After discussion, the board voted unanimously to table the matter and direct Mack to gather a comprehensive total cost for the project. A special meeting is expected in the coming weeks for a final decision.

During public comments, resident and planning board member Lance Mauldin urged commissioners not to let administrative delays derail the project, sharing his experience as a parent of a child with special needs who often must travel to find accessible playgrounds.

Mayor Cameron Dockery echoed those sentiments, citing personal experience and expressing support for moving the project forward once accurate cost information is available.

Source: Sandhills Sentinel

Key Takeaways

• Robbins delayed accepting a $75,000 CVB grant for an accessible playground
• Commissioners want a full, transparent project cost before committing
• Equipment alone is estimated at $200,000
• Project is time-sensitive due to potential price increases
• A special meeting is expected before the end of the year

Read more: Full story at Sandhills Sentine